subject: What Is Ssdi? [print this page] Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a monthly benefit for disabled individuals who have paid Social Security taxes and worked in the past. Disability benefits are paid to individuals who are unable to work for one year or more because of their condition.
Who is Eligible For Disability Benefits?
In order for an individual to qualify for this disability insurance program, they must have an illness or medical condition that fits Social Security's definition of a disability. Their disability must result in death or be expected to last one year or more in order to qualify for benefits.
When Do Applicants Find Out If They Qualify For Benefits?
People can apply for such benefits online, in person, or over the phone. They will receive a decision on the status of their applications in 4 to 6 months. The waiting time varies from person to person. For instance, if the disability examiner does not have enough medical evidence to make a decision on an individual's application, it will take longer for the applicant to receive a decision. If the disability examiner does not have enough evidence, he may send the applicant to a Social Security doctor. That way, they can get the evidence they need and make a decision.
When Do Disability Payments Begin?
By law, a person's disability payments cannot start until they have been disabled for at least 5 months. Payments usually begin on a person's sixth month of disability. When an applicant is approved, he will receive a notice that explains how much the monthly benefit will be and when the payments will start. If the individual is approved for benefits, he may receive the first monthly payment in the form of a check.
How Do Applicants Get Paid?
When an individual is approved for benefits, they can choose to receive monthly checks from Social Security or they can have the funds deposited into their bank account each month.
How Long Will The Benefits Continue?
Typically, an individual's disability benefits will continue as long as their medical or mental condition has not improved and they cannot work. Individuals who are receiving disability benefits may be reviewed every year or every few years to make sure they still have a disabling condition.
What Happens When Applicants Don't Get Approved?
If an applicant doesn't get approved, he can appeal the decision. This request must be in writing and sent to the Social Security office within sixty days of the date that they received the decision. Applicants who are denied for benefits can also hire a lawyer to represent them.
